Gardens of Madeira

Almost since it was first settled in 1419, Madeirans have been creating gardens and plant collections, many of which are now open to visitors. Many of the plants on this wonderful island have been introduced from all corners of the world and thrive in the mild climate of Madeira. Our tour will include visits to the Monte Palace Gardens, the Funchal Botanic Garden, the Quinta do Palheiro Ferreiro and excursions to walk amongst the native flora. Please note – the terrain is very varied in Madeira and several of the gardens are located on sloping hillsides.

Holiday Highlights

Admire the vast range of colours at the Monte Palace Gardens against the striking backdrop of Funchal bay

The flora of 'Quinta Jardins do Lago' is such a rich and diverse collection that it can rival any good botanical gardens

Visit gardens in other parts of the island, taking in stunning views along the way

Enjoy a mix of larger public gardens as well as smaller gardens

What’s included

Half-Board en-suite accommodation.

The services of an experienced HF Holidays’ leader.

Full day excursions with all entrance fees and essential transport. '

With flight’ holidays include return flights from the UK and hotel transfers.

Gallery

You will be met at Madeira Airport and taken to your hotel, located near Funchal, the island's capital. There will be time to settle in and meet your Tour Manager and fellow guests before dinner.

We begin our tour in Funchal with a visit to the Municipal Gardens, a small park with mature trees and shrubs and exuberant seasonal plantings. We’ll then take the time for a stroll through the impressive Promenade Gardens as well as visiting the busy market where you’ll find an abundance or fruit, vegetable and flowers. After lunch we'll visit the Santa Catarina Park and the nearby Quinta Vigia, which is now the official residence of the island's president.

Today we’ll discover two superb gardens: the Funchal Botanic Gardens and the Quinta Jardins do Lago. The Botanic Gardens are noted for their collections of native flora and its display of cultivated plants which have been introduced over the centuries. In the afternoon, it’s time to visit the splendid gardens of Quinta Jardins do Lago, with more than 500 different plants unique in their variety and natural beauty.

Today’s the day to be an orchid lover! The first garden of the day, Quinta da Boa Vista, specialises in orchids and is home to a number of rare and endangered species. The afternoon takes us on a wider tour of the island to explore several unique areas which contribute to the patchwork of this diverse island. Starting in the centre of the island at Encumeada, we will take a short walk, weather permitting, ending with a visit to Sao Vicente on the north coast.

On our 7-night holidays, we allow one free day where there is no organised excursion. This is an ideal opportunity for you to relax, enjoy the hotel facilities or explore the area independently.

In the morning, a drive inland brings us to Ribeiro Frio, where there is a garden full of native plants waiting. Weather permitting we'll take a short stroll along a levada to see a variety of plants in the wild. In the afternoon we'll travel to Monte, now virtually a suburb of Funchal to visit the old Municipal Gardens and the Monte Palace Gardens. You may wish to visit the sculpture and mineral displays here alongside the beautifully-restored gardens.

In the morning we'll visit Quinta do Palheiro Ferreiro, a.k.a. Blandy's, one of the finest private gardens on the island. Set on a hillside with magnificent views, the gardens contain many mature trees, exotic shrubs and flowers. In the afternoon we'll return to Funchal to enjoy the annual Flower Festival parading through the streets of the city.

Hotel Galosol - Madeira

A short bus ride from Funchal, and Occupying an enviable position on the southeast coast, the clifftop 4-star Hotel Galosol offers fine views of the Atlantic Ocean, the Ilhas Desertas and the rocky Madeiran shore. The hotel is located within the resort of Caniço de Baixo, a residential area with shops and a few local restaurants. The hotel has an impressive range of facilities including indoor and outdoor swimming pools, gym and wellness centre.

Rooms

The hotel has 123 spacious en-suite bedrooms.

These air conditioned rooms are bright and offer modern, comfortable beds. The warm Mediterranean colours and decoration create a cosy atmosphere. The balcony comes with table and chairs which invites you to relax.

Satellite TV with English channels is standard, as is the radio channel, rooms also contain a minibar and safe (small charge). The spacious bathrooms/WC are equipped with a large mirror, vanity mirror, hairdryer, bidet and have either a bath tub or a large shower.

Facilities

Guests have free use of Onda Revital Club, offering fitness classes, weekly morning jogging and yoga. The Wellness Centre has an indoor pool, saunas and Jacuzzi. There are outdoor and indoor pools.

There is a weekly entertainment programme including some live music. The bar and coffee shop overlook the sea. As well as the main restaurant there are several bars on site.

Wi-Fi is free throughout the common areas of the hotel.

Food & Drink

Our Holidays in Madeira are on a Half Board basis and include breakfast and evening meal.

Breakfast

The buffet breakfast, served from 7.30am until 10am includes a variety of breads, jams, spreads, yogurt, cheese, fresh vegetables, muesli-bar, cereals, soft-boiled eggs, freshly cooked scrambled or fried eggs, omelettes and fresh fruit salad. There may also be some seasonal fruit such as bananas, passion fruit, papaya, melon and orange.

Lunch (payable locally)

You may be able to purchase a picnic lunch from the hotel. Alternatively it is possible to buy ingredients from local shops or on some days to eat at one of the local cafés; your leaders will advise you of the options.

Evening meal

This meal is buffet style and available from 6.30pm until 9pm. The hotel prides itself on serving fresh, locally sourced produce and offers daily meat, fish and vegetarian selections, plus plenty of salads. For dessert there are fruit pastries, delicious cakes and other fresh cream desserts. Tea and coffee is served after the meal.

Drinks

The hotel has a well-stocked bar serving beer, wine and spirits.

Your Evenings

Each evening your leaders will tell you about the the next day's activities and answer any questions you may have. During the evening you may like to join in an optional organised activity, such as a quiz, or chat in the bar overlooking the sea.

On the final evening you can enjoy a local meal tasting local dishes and delicacies, a wonderful finale to this unique holiday. Vegetarian options are also available.

There is an opportunity to visit the island's capital, Funchal, one evening and walk along the promenade followed by listening to some live music over a sociable drink.

Getting to Hotel Galosol - Madeira

Find out more about this location including travel details and room types.

Guest Reviews

These departure dates can be booked with flights or as land only holiday options. All packages that include flights are ATOL protected. Advertised flight prices are based on UK flights departing from London. Regional departures and/or connections to London, if available, can be requested. Cabin upgrades may also be available on request.